2007 Sonoma County Three Valleys 76% ZINFANDEL, 8% PETITE SIRAH, 7% SYRAH, 6% GRENACHE,3% CARIGNANE

A dry, short winter brought early bud break, and bloom by late March; our Sonoma vineyards ripened by September. Each parcel fermented on its natural yeasts. Color and tannin extracted easily, and we pressed, on average, after seven days. The style and character of the Three Valleys are determined by the lots we choose for their fruit, color, and/or structure. When malolactic finished, we assembled these lots from the ten individual vineyards that make up the 2007. In barrel, the wine clarified naturally, and tannins resolved in time for an August bottling. Rich fruit and exotic spice give immediate appeal. This excellent wine will be at its best over the next five to six years. JO/EB (6/08